MLB Trade Deadline: San Francisco Giants Looking at Brian Wilson

By Robert Lin

Chris Humphreys-USA Today Sports

Last season’s World Series winner, the San Francisco Giants, are struggling to maintain a playoff berth. Many key players are out with injuries, and it is most evident in the bullpen. The Giants have not finished lower than fifth among NL teams over the past four seasons. But this season, their ERA is 4.19, good for 23rd overall.

Tim Lincecum, who is in a contract year, has been very inconsistent. He had a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres, but gave up eight runs on nine in the next game. Ryan Vogelsong is out with a hand injury and relief pitcher Jeremy Affeldt has a strained groin that will keep him out four to six weeks.

If the Giants plan to make a move, it would be a trade for a pitcher or to pick one off of free agency.

The Giants are reported to be interested in bringing back Brian Wilson, who is currently showcasing his skills this week to interested teams at the University of San Francisco. Wilson missed most of last season when he injured his elbow against the Colorado Rockies in April. He had to undergo a second Tommy John surgery. He was non-tendered after the season, which made him a free agent.

Another pitcher on the Giants’ radar is Kansas City Royals‘ Ervin Santana. Santana has an ERA of 3.06 and WHIP of 1.077. However, the Giants will have to pay a hefty $13 million just to rent him for one year, as he will become a free agent after this season. Wilson can be re-signed for a cheaper and better deal, so he’ll be the no. 1 option.